Travel to Toronto, Ontario – Episode 852

Hear about travel to Toronto, Ontario as the Amateur Traveler talks to Erin Hynes from PinaTravels.org and the Alpaca My Bags podcast about her hometown and Canada’s largest city. 

Why should you go to Toronto?

Erin says, “I always tell people to come to Toronto because the city truly has something for everyone. The city has amazing museums shopping, incredible food, nightlife. It’s also just surprisingly green. If you like the outdoors, there’s a lot you can get up to in the city from kayaking to hanging out in parks. What I personally love about the city, and I think what’s kept me here so long is how diverse it is. Every neighborhood is unique and I really just love wandering the various neighborhoods and seeing what I could find. So yeah, it’s just such a vibrant city and really you’ll find whatever it is you’re looking for here.”

Welcome to Toronto, a diverse and captivating city in Canada that offers a plethora of attractions, experiences, and cultural landmarks. Let’s embark on a journey through the city’s most remarkable sites.

No visit to Toronto is complete without a trip to the iconic CN Tower. This towering structure dominates the city’s skyline and offers panoramic views of Toronto and its surrounding areas. If you’re looking for a vibrant public space, head to Yonge–Dundas Square, often referred to as “Toronto’s Times Square.” This bustling intersection is a hub of activity, featuring live performances, festivals, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Shopaholics will delight in the Toronto Eaton Centre, a premier shopping destination in the heart of downtown. With over 200 stores, this massive mall offers a wide range of fashion, electronics, and dining options. For theater enthusiasts, the Ed Mirvish Theatre is a cultural gem that showcases Broadway shows, musicals, and performances that captivate audiences.

Toronto City Hall, with its distinctive twin towers, is an architectural masterpiece worth exploring. Located in Nathan Phillips Square, it serves as a central gathering place and a symbol of Toronto’s civic pride.

Nearly half of the residents of Toronto were born in another country which gives the city a great collection of ethnic neighborhoods. Chinatown invites visitors to experience a vibrant community filled with traditional Chinese restaurants, markets, and cultural celebrations. Be sure to visit Little Italy, where you can savor delicious Italian cuisine and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this lively district. Koreatown, Toronto, is another cultural hub, offering authentic Korean cuisine and a lively street scene. 

Or venture to Kensington Market, a bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of vintage shops, international cuisine, and vibrant street art. P

To navigate Toronto’s vast transportation network, visit TTC.ca, the official website of the Toronto Transit Commission. It provides information on subway, bus, and streetcar routes, allowing you to easily explore the city’s many attractions.

Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the art and history found in Yorkville. This upscale neighborhood is home to the Royal Ontario Museum, renowned for its diverse collections that span art, history, and natural sciences. The Bata Shoe Museum, a unique institution dedicated to footwear history, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of shoes.

For a taste of grandeur, venture to Casa Loma, a majestic castle perched on a hilltop. Explore its lavish interiors, and lush gardens, and enjoy stunning views of the city. Spadina Museum, a restored 20th-century mansion, provides a glimpse into Toronto’s past through its elegant rooms and beautiful gardens.

For entertainment seekers, Toronto’s Entertainment District is the place to be. Home to numerous theaters, clubs, and restaurants, this vibrant area comes alive with energy during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), attracting film enthusiasts and celebrities from around the world.

Escape the bustling city and retreat to Toronto Island Park, a serene oasis located just a short ferry ride away. Explore the beaches and picnic areas.

For side trips, Erin recommends Niagara Falls. Also for nature enthusiasts, Petroglyphs Provincial Park and Algonquin Provincial Park are must-visit destinations. Petroglyphs Provincial Park, located just a few hours north of Toronto, showcases ancient rock carvings created by Indigenous peoples. Algonquin Provincial Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and canoeing.

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Show Notes

pinatravels.org
Toronto
Welcome to Petroglyphs Provincial Park
Algonquin Provincial Park
CN Tower
Yonge–Dundas Square
Toronto Eaton Centre
Ed Mirvish Theatre
Toronto City Hall
Chinatown
Rol San Restaurant
Kensington Market
Pow Wow Cafe
Little Italy
Koreatown, Toronto
Ramen Isshin
Café Diplomatico
TTC.ca
Yorkville
Royal Ontario Museum
Bata Shoe Museum
Casa Loma
Spadina Museum
Toronto Entertainment District
TIFF – Toronto International Film Festival
Toronto Island Park
The Annex Hotel
Neighbourhood: The Beaches
Cabbagetown
Parkdale
Distillery District
Toronto Winter Village
Toronto Raptors
Toronto Bluejays
Trinity Bellwoods Park
High Park Toronto
Christie Pits Park
Niagara Falls Canada
Behind the falls
Aurora, Ontario
Petroglyphs Provincial Park
Kingston
Kingston, Ontario – Episode 87 – Amateur Traveler
Civil Liberties
DROM Taberna
4 Days in Toronto Itinerary: What to See + Things to Do

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